Madison considers putting up surveillance cameras

Cameras might one day be posted on roads leading to, from city

Madison city leaders are looking into setting up surveillance cameras on the road leading to and from the city.

The proposal has spurred a debate among residents as to whether the cameras would present an intrusion or will be a way to keep an eye on crime.

"There are cameras everywhere these days, so it doesn't bother me at all," said Madison resident David Gates.

"I just think we have too many cameras already. It's too much of an invasion of privacy," said another resident, Jane Morrison.

The price tag for the city could be $200,000, but taxpayers may not have to foot the bill. The city could seek federal grants to pay for the project.

Other cities, like Jackson, have looked at using cameras to look for things like evidence in proving traffic violations. But Madison officials said they have no interest in things like that. Madison Police Chief Gen Waldrop said the cameras would be another tool for law enforcement.

"I think it might give us a little edge on activity, either coming in or going out of the city," Waldrop said. "It is strictly to look at the possibility of catching the criminal vehicle. If it is leaving our city and we have a description of it we can follow up on our investigation."

The city is still studying the idea. There is no timeline as to if and when the project might move forward.

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